Korea supports Gavi for childhood immunization in poorest nations

The Republic of Korea recently signed an agreement that shows its support to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in order to improve the nation’s contributions to childhood vaccinations within some of the world’s poorest countries from 2015 to 2017.

According to the agreement, Korea will support the cause with an addition $3 million (USD) each year between 2015 and 2017.

Korea’s Mr. Lee Yongsoo, the director-general for development cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Korea, and Dr. Seth Berkley, the CEO of Gavi, signed this agreement, which is the third commitment that Korea has made to support Gavi.

“Health and children are a priority for Korea’s development cooperation policy and Gavi is our partner,” Yongsoo said. “We will continue to strengthen our cooperation with Gavi in the years to come.”

These additional finances will be used to finance immunization programs located in 73 countries where Gavi operates. These vaccines are designed to protect children from severe diarrhea and pneumonia, both of which are common childhood killers in developing countries.

“I am delighted that the Korean government recognizes the critical importance of childhood immunization,” Berkley said. “This renewed contribution will help us to reach more children with live-saving vaccines and protect them from preventable illness. This will reduce deaths, improve health and help communities lift themselves out of poverty.”